Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Growing Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Chief Winemaker: Matt Thomson

TASTING NOTE:
This 2014 'Raptor' Sauvignon Blanc is made in small quantities and represents the best of the vintage. The Raptor Series is their range of wines that allows them to express the best varietal and vineyard characters from ideal vintages. Premium parcels of fruit are identified by Phil in the vineyard that he considers to be of superior quality.

This 2014 'Raptor' Sauvignon Blanc is sourced entirely from their new Talon vineyard, located in the Dillons Point area, which is immediately east of Blenheim. The 'Raptor' Sauvignon Blanc blend is selected post fermentation each vintage. After a focused tasting and consideration of all the Sauvignon Blanc parcels - they craft a wine worthy to be dressed with the 'Raptor' label. When Phil deemed that the fruit was physiologically ripe, the grapes were machine harvested in the cool of the evening and transported quickly to the winery for vinification and to minimise any contact with oxygen. Fermentation was carefully controlled at low temperatures to retain the varietal freshness and bright nature of the fruit.

In the glass you will be greeted by a bright, pale straw colour. On the nose you will find lifted aromas of tomato leaf, along with passion-fruit and an underlying grapefruit note. On the palate these aromas carry though combining with blackcurrant and passion-fruit flavours along with a mineral note and balanced acidity that gives elegance to a full wine and leads on to a lingering finish. Chill and serve at 8-10C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this summer season; and will develop further over the next 2 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine pairing with grilled whole fish and a freshly tossed summer salad; enjoy.

An iconic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.